Core Lithium Ltd (ASX:CXO) has been granted environmental approval for BP33 Underground Mine at Finniss Lithium Project from the Northern Territory’s Minister for Environment, clearing the way for the next set of development approvals.
BP33 is the second mine to be approved at Core’s Finniss Project, with mining at Grants open pit beginning late last year.
The company will now submit a mine management plan (MMP) to the Department of Industry, Tourism & Trade for assessment as the last stage of the permitting process for BP33.
“Another exciting milestone”
“The grant of environmental approval for the BP33 Underground Mine is another exciting milestone achieved by Core in the development of the Finniss Lithium Project,” Core Lithium managing director Stephen Biggins said.
“The BP33 Underground Mine is the second mine approved at Finniss with mining at Grants commencing in late 2021.
“BP33 is a higher-grade orebody than Grants with recent deep drilling supporting the interpretation that BP33 mineralisation is improving with depth.”
Activities at the Finniss Lithium mine are on schedule, with first ore on ship expected at the end of this year.
The Northern Territory Government appears keen to negotiate with Core Lithium, as stated by the Labor Government Minister for Environment, Eva Lawler:
“The Territory Labor Government’s reformed environment protection legislation commenced in 2020, providing Territorians with an improved environmental regulatory regime,” Minister Lawler said.
“This Environmental Approval follows a thorough assessment of potentially significant environmental impacts by the NT EPA (Environment Protection Authority) – it is the second to be granted under the EP Act, and the first for a mine.
“We will continue to work with Core Lithium on this project to ensure the best outcomes.”